Throughout his election campaign and since he became leader of the City Of York Council, James Alexander has given the misleading impression to the people of York that the Government’s cuts are not necessary.

He has also stated that he will reverse cuts contained in the pervious council budget. If James wants to be a credible and respected leader, he needs to be honest with the York citizens and admit that the country’s finances are in a mess and reduced public spending is unavoidable.

Instead, he is daily making announcements on increased spending. How can he do this when the council had a balanced budget before May’s election and James assures us of a balanced budget with no council tax increase following his spending increases – ostensibly of £1 million?

James needs to state exactly what cuts he is making. He then needs to adopt the stance that his national party is slowly coming round to, of admitting that they spent too much in government and should have made more effort on welfare reform – to get those who can work into work. It’s time for James to stop chasing his ego and start being a serious council leader who we can respect.

Coun Joe Watt, Conservative member for Skelton, Rawcliffe & Clifton Without and shadow spokesman for city strategy, Skelton, York.